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Don’t Let Jamie Rivers Deter You from Hitting the Gym
If you’ve been online recently, you’ve likely heard about Jamie Rivers, a former model who stirred up outrage by posting a photo of an unsuspecting naked woman in a gym locker room on social media. After we all took a moment to process the sheer cruelty of her actions, I couldn’t help but think, “What if that were me?” Talk about a nightmare scenario!
When I’m in the shower post-workout, I usually find myself thinking, “You crushed it today; who knew you could conquer that treadmill?” But the thought of having my naked body splashed across the internet with a caption that reads, “If I can’t unsee this, neither can you” is horrifying. Maybe I’m being overly sensitive, but that could really mess with someone’s head. I just hope that the woman in the photo is either tough as nails or blissfully unaware of what happened.
Let’s be honest; we already face enough hurdles when it comes to hitting the gym. It takes time, motivation, money, and effort — and now we have to worry about former models snapping photos of us? Seriously?
Well, I say enough is enough, Jamie Rivers and others like her. We may not all have gravity-defying figures or the perfect physique, but we’re making an effort to feel good. I work out to ease stress, stay healthy, and maybe earn myself a margarita or two. Many of us who drag ourselves to the gym, trails, or any public space for a workout have literally created life within our bodies. I’m still coming to terms with my belly button’s new shape and the fact that my breasts have decided to migrate south like geese in winter. Yes, my assets are now officially resembling waterfowl.
That woman’s body Jamie Rivers took a picture of represents all of us. Each of our bodies tells a story, filled with heartbreaks, triumphs, and everything in between.
Our hips may be wider due to the miraculous task of childbirth, but you know what? They’ve also helped us run countless miles while soothing babies, chasing after toddlers, or sprinting toward playground emergencies.
Our arms might have a little jiggle, but they’re strong enough to carry sleeping children and a week’s worth of groceries at once.
Our breasts may sag from hours of nursing, and our bellies could be adorned with silverfish-shaped stretch marks and scars from life’s journey.
Our hair may not be perfectly styled because, let’s face it, our lives are no longer just our own. And sure, our backsides might not be as perky as they once were, but they can squat, lift, and sprint after kids in a flash. Oh, how I long for my 20-something rear end!
The body that Jamie Rivers shamed has stories you’ll never know — just as we all do. We go to the gym not to erase our stories, but because we’re already strong. If you see a woman working out, especially a mom, recognize that it probably took an immense effort for her to get there. Please don’t mock this journey we’re on to become better versions of ourselves.
And if you find yourself resorting to humiliating another woman in what should be a safe space, perhaps turn that camera around and take a look at yourself. Just be careful; you might not want to unsee what you find.
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Summary
In a world where body shaming is rampant, we must remember that every body tells a unique story. Instead of letting negativity deter us, we should celebrate our strengths and the journeys that brought us to the gym. Let’s uplift one another in our pursuit of health and wellness.